Who makes it?

Jackson Estate wines have long been staples on our shelves and this particular pinot has been sourced from the historic property. A property overlooked by the namesake Homestead and is still farmed by the Jackson family. Pinot noir suits the Marlborough well, with the regions warm days and crisp nights. Although, in the effort to provide enough Sauvignon Blanc to winelovers around the world, Pinot noir ended up being very much overshadowed. Finally, change is here and this grape is beginning to earn the respect it deserves. At last, it is becoming better known and there are some excellent producers of Marlborough pinot. This Homestead pinot is a solid performer and the vineyard boasts some of the older pinot vines in the region.     

How they make it?

This is a blend of different clones made into different batches. The winemaking strategy focused on getting the best wine from each of these batches. Hence, part of the vintage was fermented with indigenous yeasts, part with inoculated yeasts. Furthermore these batches were split further with some matured in stainless steel, some in new oak and some in seasoned oak.  

What does it taste like?

As you would expect from this grape, there is a fragrant spice laden perfume of ripe cherry and thyme. A vegetal note underlines this perfume highlighting its exuberance. Although it is not full bodied, it very intense. It is also supple and silky and that intensity is long and lingering. It finishes with a spice infused earthiness.

What to drink with it?

This is a treat to zhuzh up your mid week classics. Particularly something like bangers and mash, lamb chops or a weekend comfort splurge of lasagna.

Cheese

Truffle cheddar

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Quickie review « Jackson Estate reminds us that good pinot is not the sole domain of Central Otago. And that Marlborough is not a single varietal region! »

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Country of Origin:  Marlborough, New Zealand
Tasting Date: December 20
Price:  £14 | NZ$23
Drink: now – 3+ years
Needs food: no
Source: purchase

Are you a New Zealand Pinot lover? Click here for a review on Burn Cottage Pinot noir.

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